Scholar Stomach

A student colleague recently explained the tummy softening and bulging that often emerges through the course of doctoral studies using two simple words – scholar stomach. Looking around the room, and especially down at myself, I realized that this was truly a phenomenon. Naming the phenomenon gave it power; it transformed something from a personal experience to collective understanding. This helped me to develop an awareness that led to the critical conscience necessary to compel me into action. I committed to a daily Pilates practice upon returning home, although that commitment waned in a few weeks. Scholar stomach remains.